Suicide

Question 1

Describe the peaks and troughs of suicide rates over the years and possible reasons.

Answer 1

There was a rise in suicide rate among males during the great depression, this may have been due to major job losses and stress. A trough in WW2 among males may have been due to a newfound value of life, seeing the suffering of war. A peak of womens suicide rates in the 60’s during a time of women’s liberation may be due to women become away of the inequalities they face and the difficulties in taking action.

Question 2

What are risk factors for suicide.

Answer 2

Most people who attempt or commit suicide suffer from depression. Alcohol dependence. Previous attempts and an organised plan. Schizophrenia, bulimia, anorexia and BPD.

Question 3

Outline the DSM-5 criteria for Non-suicidal self injury.

Answer 3

A. in the last year has caused injury to the surface of body on 5+days.
B. Engages in behaviour with expectation that it will relieve negative feelings, produce a positive state, relieve interpersonal conflict
C. Behaviour associated with interpersonal difficulty, prior preoccupation or constant thinking about.

Question 4

What five components are involved in a suicidal assessment interview?

Answer 4

1. Assessing for depression (hopelessness)
2. Exploring suicidal ideation (intensity, duration, frequency)
3. Assessing suicide plans (past attempts and SLAP)
4. Assessing level of self control (mid)
5. Assessing intent (rate on scale)